gen·er·a·tor (j n  -r  tr)n. 1. a. One that generates, especially a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. b. An apparatus that generates vapor or gas. 2. A circuit that generates a specified waveform. 3. Mathematics See generatrix. 4. Computer Science A program that produces specific programs from the definition of an operation. |
generator [ˈdʒɛnəˌreɪtə]
n
1. (Physics / General Physics) Physics
a. any device for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy by electromagnetic induction, esp a large one as in a power station
b. a device for producing a voltage electrostatically
c. any device that converts one form of energy into another form an acoustic generator
2. (Chemistry) an apparatus for producing a gas
3. a person or thing that generates
| generator (jn-rtr) 1. A machine that converts mechanical energy into electricity to serve as a power source for other machines. Electrical generators found in power plants use water turbines, combustion engines, windmills, or other sources of mechanical energy to spin wire coils in strong magnetic fields, inducing an electric potential in the coils. A generator that provides alternating current power is called an alternator. See also induction. 2. See generatrix. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  generator - an apparatus that produces a vapor or gas |
| 2. | generator - engine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy by electromagnetic induction alternator - an old term for an electric generator that produces alternating current (especially in automobiles) brush - conducts current between rotating and stationary parts of a generator or motor dynamo - generator consisting of a coil (the armature) that rotates between the poles of an electromagnet (the field magnet) causing a current to flow in the armature engine - motor that converts thermal energy to mechanical work magneto, magnetoelectric machine - a small dynamo with a secondary winding that produces a high voltage enabling a spark to jump between the poles of a spark plug in a gasoline engine rotor, rotor coil - the rotating armature of a motor or generator stator, stator coil - mechanical device consisting of the stationary part of a motor or generator in or around which the rotor revolves turbogenerator - generator consisting of a steam turbine coupled to an electric generator for the production of electric power | |
| 3. | generator - someone who originates or causes or initiates something; "he was the generator of several complaints" coiner - someone who is a source of new words or new expressions | |
| 4. | generator - an electronic device for producing a signal voltage electronic device - a device that accomplishes its purpose electronically oscillator - generator that produces sonic oscillations or alternating current pulse generator - a generator of single or multiple voltage pulses; usually adjustable for pulse rate |
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